As the manager reported that he had a big group of players to choose from now that early season injuries are clearing up with only Wilfried Zaha and Connor Wickham unavailable.
Following his appearance on Tuesday night in the cup victory over Huddersfield Town the manager is giving Mamadou a place in the starting eleven at The Etihad.
"We've got a large squad to choose from. Everyone made it through Tuesday unscathed. The centre of defence has been reasonably strong and Sakho is fit to start and will do on Saturday."
Sakho was very good and I'd heard some positive things about him and I can understand why he's a favourite with the Selhurst fans. I am now hoping that his leadership qualities will help us move away from the relegation zone." Hodgson told the assembled media at his press conference.
He spoke midweek about a return for Zaha being still a couple of games away but his recovery path is one that is showing good signs.
"Feedback on Wilf is positive, he is doing work with the sports science and medical staff and is still on target for a return after the international period," said Hodgson as he updated us on the fitness of the winger.